Four Youths Arrested in Raisen for Firing Cannon at ASI-Protected Fort and Allegedly Raising War Slogans
Police in Madhya Pradesh's Raisen district have taken swift action by arresting four individuals following the emergence of a disturbing video on social media. The footage, which went viral, allegedly shows the group firing a cannon from the hilltop Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) protected Raisen Fort while shouting slogans that reference countries embroiled in current international conflicts.
Complaint and Police Investigation
The case came to light after a complaint was filed by Brijesh Chabria, who informed authorities that he had viewed an Instagram reel depicting the incident. According to the complainant, the video featured Raisen resident Shadab Qureshi and others engaging in the cannon firing and uttering slogans connected to nations involved in ongoing wars. Chabria expressed concern that such actions could potentially disrupt social harmony within the town.
Upon receiving the complaint, police launched an immediate inquiry into the viral video. After thorough verification, the suspects were identified and subsequently detained. A formal case has been registered at the Kotwali police station in Raisen, with further investigation currently underway to uncover all details surrounding the event.
Arrested Individuals and Community Response
The police have confirmed the arrest of four accused persons. The main suspect is identified as Shadab Qureshi (30), son of Shaheer Qureshi, a resident of Kasai Mohalla in Raisen. The other three individuals taken into custody are:
- Yusuf Sheikh alias Danish Khan (19), son of Mahfooz Sheikh from Chataipura, Bhopal
- Wasim Mohammad (32), son of Ibrahim Khan from Aishbagh, Bhopal
- Pappu alias Salman Qureshi (30), son of Salim Qureshi from Talaiya, Bhopal
Authorities have stated that efforts are ongoing to identify and trace any additional individuals who may have been involved in the creation or dissemination of the video.
In response to the incident, community leaders took proactive steps to maintain peace. Late on Saturday night, the City Qazi and the president of the Muslim Festival Committee visited the Kotwali police station. They held discussions with Additional SP Kamlesh Kumar Kharpuse, focusing on strategies to preserve communal harmony in the city. The City Qazi made a public appeal, urging residents to remain calm and refrain from spreading rumors related to the event.
Security Measures and National Human Rights Commission Involvement
In light of security concerns raised by the incident, police have implemented restrictions at the Raisen Fort. The specific section where the cannon is typically fired has now been limited to authorized personnel only, ensuring enhanced protection for the ASI-protected site.
The incident has also drawn attention from national authorities. National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) member Priyank Kanoongo reacted to the viral video by sharing it on social media and expressing serious concerns. Kanoongo described the act as involving the firing of illegal country-made cannons from the fort towards a residential area, which he stated could instill fear among local residents.
He further questioned the roles of the Archaeological Survey of India and the local administration in preventing such occurrences. Kanoongo emphasized that strict action should be taken against those involved in manufacturing or using illegal weapons that endanger public safety. He indicated that the NHRC may issue a formal notice in the matter, seeking a detailed report from the concerned authorities.
Ongoing Investigation and Social Media Scrutiny
Police have confirmed that the viral video and associated social media posts are being meticulously examined as part of the ongoing investigation. This scrutiny aims to determine the full context of the slogans and the potential impact on community relations. The authorities are committed to ensuring that all aspects of the case are thoroughly investigated to uphold law and order in the region.
The incident underscores the challenges of maintaining historical site security and social harmony in the digital age, where viral content can quickly escalate tensions. The proactive measures by police and community leaders highlight a concerted effort to address such issues promptly and effectively.
